1978 Mercury Cougar vs. 1961 Porsche 356
To start off, 1978 Mercury Cougar is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Porsche 356 (135 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Mercury Cougar. (133 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercury Cougar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 1075 kg more than 1961 Porsche 356.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercury Cougar | 1961 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercury | Porsche |
| Model | Cougar | 356 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4941 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2110 mm |
